By Sipho Ndlovu · Football Writer · June 13, 2026Australia secure dominant victory
Australia defeated South Africa by 65 runs in their opening match of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup. The match, held at Old Trafford, saw Australia bowl out South Africa for 107 in 16.4 overs after setting a target of 173. This victory marks a strong start for Australia in Group A, where the margin of win could prove significant in the standings.
Australia, ranked number one globally, are aiming for a record-extending seventh title in the tournament’s history. They have previously secured titles in 2010, 2012, 2014, 2018, 2020, and 2023. This win also serves as a form of redemption for Australia, who were knocked out by South Africa in the semi-finals two years prior.
South Africa’s chase falters
South Africa’s chase began with early setbacks, losing two wickets for nine runs after two overs. Captain Sophie Molineux claimed the wicket of Sune Luus, while Kim Garth bowled Annerie Dercksen shortly after. Despite these early losses, Laura Wolvaardt and Nadine de Klerk attempted to rebuild the innings, bringing the score to 43/2 after six overs.
However, the Australian bowlers, particularly the spinners, maintained tight control. Georgia Wareham provided a crucial breakthrough, dismissing Nadine de Klerk for 25 runs, ending a 41-run partnership. Wareham finished with three wickets for 13 runs, contributing significantly to Australia’s bowling effort.
As the innings progressed, South Africa continued to lose wickets. Marizanne Kapp was run out, and captain Laura Wolvaardt, who had scored 44, was caught by Wareham off Molineux’s bowling. Wolvaardt’s dismissal was a significant blow to South Africa’s hopes of chasing the target. The team’s middle order struggled to build momentum, with five wickets falling for a limited number of runs within 18 balls.
Australian innings highlights
Earlier in the match, Australia won the toss and elected to bat first at Old Trafford. The Australian innings saw contributions from various batters, with Phoebe Litchfield scoring a half-century before being dismissed by Ayabonga Khaka. Australia reached 100 runs in 12 overs, consolidating their position after a challenging start.
Shabnim Ismail of South Africa made an early impact, dismissing Beth Mooney after a strong over. Marizanne Kapp also secured an early breakthrough by removing Georgia Voll. Despite these efforts, Australia managed to set a formidable target for South Africa.
Proteas’ World Cup ambitions
The Proteas entered the T20 World Cup with significant ambitions, despite a history of falling short in major tournaments. Their loss in the 2024 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup final in Dubai marked their second consecutive defeat in a T20 World Cup final, having also lost to Australia in 2023. This year’s tournament is being hosted in Wales and England, running from 12 June to 5 July.
South Africa’s squad, led by captain Laura Wolvaardt and coach Mandla Mashimbyi, features a blend of experienced players and emerging talent. Suné Luus, a spin bowler and all-rounder, expressed confidence in the team’s composition. The return of pace bowler Shabnim Ismail from international retirement was a notable selection, with Wolvaardt highlighting her quality and experience.
Wolvaardt arrived in England in strong form, having been the leading run-scorer in a five-match T20I series against India last month. She scored runs in that series, the most by any woman in a bilateral T20I series. Despite the team’s recent performance against New Zealand, including a narrow five-wicket loss in a warm-up game on 9 June, Wolvaardt remains confident in their ability to compete in a tough group that also includes India, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands. South Africa’s next fixture is against Pakistan on 17 June.
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Source: theguardian.com
